To explore the definition, evidence, and rewards of faith as described in Hebrews 11:1, emphasizing the importance of faith in overcoming life's difficulties and enhancing our spiritual growth.
Good morning, family. Today, we venture into a profound exploration of faith as we delve into the remarkable book of Hebrews, specifically Hebrews 11:1. This verse tells us, "Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see."
In this journey we are about to embark on, we'll explore three main facets of faith. First, we'll look at the Definition of Faith - what does the bible really mean when it speaks about faith? We'll then explore the Evidence of Faith - how does faith show itself in our lives? And finally, we'll talk about the Rewards of Faith - what blessings does faith bring into our lives?
Vernon S. Broyles III, a respected preacher once said, "Faith is the samurai of the soul; its sharp edge cuts through all difficulties." This quote rings true as we live our lives walking by faith and not by sight.
When we think about faith, we often think about it in terms of belief. We say we have faith in God, faith in the promises of the Bible, faith in the teachings of Jesus. But what does it really mean to have faith? According to Hebrews 11:1, faith is "confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see." This definition gives us a profound insight into the nature of faith.
A. Faith is, first and foremost, confidence. It is not a vague hope or a wishful thinking. It is a firm, unshakeable confidence in the promises of God. It is a confidence that is not based on our feelings or circumstances, but on the unchanging word of God. When we have faith, we are confident that God will do what He has promised, even when everything around us seems to suggest otherwise. We are confident that God is who He says He is, and that He will do what He says He will do.
B. Faith is also assurance. It is a deep, inner conviction that goes beyond mere intellectual assent. It is a conviction that is rooted in our hearts, not just in our minds. When we have faith, we are assured of the reality of the things we do not see. We are assured of the existence of God, the truth of His word, the reality of His love, the certainty of His promises, and the hope of eternal life. We are assured of these things not because we can see them with our physical eyes, but because we can see them with the eyes of faith.
C. Moreover, faith is not passive. It is not a mere acceptance of certain doctrines or a passive assent to certain truths. Faith is active. It involves trust, commitment, and obedience. It involves trusting God in the midst of trials, committing ourselves to His will, and obeying His commands, even when it is difficult. Faith is not just about believing in God; it is about living for God.
D. Furthermore, faith is not self-generated. It is not something we can produce on our own. Faith is a gift from God. It is God who gives us the ability to believe, to trust, to commit, and to obey. Without God's grace, we cannot have faith. But with His grace, we can have a faith that is strong, vibrant, and life-changing.
E. Finally, faith is not static. It is not something we have once and for all. Faith is dynamic. It grows and develops over time. As we walk with God, as we read His word, as we pray, as we experience His faithfulness, our faith grows. It becomes stronger, deeper, and more mature. Our faith is not a one-time event; it is a lifelong journey.
The Evidence of Faith speaks to the tangible manifestations of our faith in our daily lives ... View this full PRO sermon free with PRO
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